Round of 16. Match 8: Spain 1-0 Portugal

This match was a mouth watering prospect that didn't quite live up to the hype. That's not to say it wasn't a good game - it was. It just wasn't a brilliant game, which with the players on offer it really could have been.

Torres and Villa both tested Eduardo in the early stages and Eduardo started as he meant to go on. In other words throughout the game his quality shone through. He made some excellent saves and underlined his reputation as one of the goalkeepers of the tournament. Casillas on the other hand appeared shaky, punching weakly and behind him from Tiago's shot, although doing very well to recover under pressure from Almeida. Casillas also spilled a free kick from Ronaldo but he spilled it with enough force that it still managed to escape from danger.

Portugal had a few other chances throughout the game. Simao sent in a couple of good balls that no-one managed to get properly on the end of and Puyol almost diverted an Almeida pass into his own goal. But in truth they lacked incisiveness and only threatened sporadically. Ronaldo for one had a very disappointing game.

Spain dominated proceedings through their typical domination of possession as they played pretty passing football around the edge of the box as they patiently sought the breakthrough. Llorente came on for Torres and almost opened the scoring - his header was very well saved by Eduardo at point blank range.

Villa was a constant menace, and it was he who scored the winning goal around the hour mark. Xavi, who had made a good run, lightly flicked on a ball from the mesmerising Iniesta into the path of Villa who scored at the second attempt. It was a well worked goal and fitting that it was Villa who scored it.

I do have to point out that the goal was offside. I did a frame by frame analysis and although Villa was clearly onside when Iniesta played the ball, at the moment when Xavi flicked the ball on he was offside. Not by much granted, but a few inches is still offside. It would have been hard for the assistant referee to pick up that Xavi had flicked the ball on, let alone that it was definitely offside even if he had. So I will forgive the decision. And Spain did deserve to win. Indeed instead of Portugal almost coming back into it both Ramos and Villa had opportunities to extend the lead.

Right at the death Costa was sent off for elbowing Capdevilla. This was a poor decision and showed Capdevilla off in a bad light. Yes there was a hint of an elbow, but that went into his side and nowhere near his face which he went down clutching.

Round of 16. Match 7: Paraguay 0-0 Japan - Paraguay win on penalties

This was a tightly fought match memorable for its intensity if not its action, which in truth produced very few chances or particularly noteworthy action. Paraguay looked more likely to score but found it difficult to breach a watertight Japanese defence. The centre-back pairing of Tulio and Nakazawa thwarted anything that Paraguay threw at them, which was nowhere near enough considering the talent they have at their disposal. Paraguay appeared comfortable on defence as Japan looked devoid of any real ideas to penetrate the Paraguay goal.

There were periods of nice play from both sides but true creativity was hard to come by. Many parts of the game were highly tactical that few neutrals would be excited by. Naturally there were some opportunities: Matsui, Japan's most impressive attacking player on the day, hit the crossbar from distance, Barrios (who along with Riveros were the best Paraguayans going forward) made a sublime turn only to see his shot saved.

Extra-time continued in the same vein as the match drifted to its inexorable conclusion: World Cup 2010's first penalty shoot-out. Komano was the only player to miss (hitting the crossbar) to see Paraguay reach the quarter-final for the first time in their history.

Round of 16. Match 6: Brazil 3-0 Chile

Brazil faced an exciting Chile side but in the end won quite comfortably. Chile did threaten at times through - mainly through Beausejour and Suazo's valiant efforts to create opportunities/force a goal. But some of their more exciting players were nullified by Brazil's dominance - so much so that Sanchez was reduced to relative anonymity. Chile's brightest play came in the first quarter of an hour and when Brazil took a 2-0 lead late in the first half there was never going to be a way back.

After the break Chile to their credit made a couple of changes to try and change the face of the game. Tello came on for Contreras and Valdivia replaced Gonzales. It made little difference as Brazil were still the side forcing the issue. Valdivia did have a couple of good moments and Suazo came closest to a goal with two shots from distance - one forcing a top save from Cesar, the second crashing into the crossbar. Ultimately though Brazil secured a 3-0 win in a fairly straightforward fashion. Most impressive were Juan who was exceptional at centre-back and Ramires who made many quality surging runs.

Brazil's goals: 1) On 34 minutes Juan powered in a bullet header from a Maicon corner. 2) On 37 minutes Fabiano rounded the keeper to score after some nice work by Robinho and Kaka. 3) Brazil took the advantage of the gaps that appeared as a consequence of Chile trying to get back into the game. Ramires made a good run before setting Robinho up for a brilliant curling finish.

Round of 16. Match 5: Netherlands 2-1 Slovakia

As most people including myself had commented - this match would depend on whether the Slovakia who played Italy would turn up or whether it would be the average one who played against Paraguay. The answer was that it was something in the middle. Or perhaps it was the one that would have played like they did against Italy, if it wasn't for the fact that the Netherlands had their tactics sussed and were able to impose their own game far more than Italy did.

The Netherlands created the best opportunities. Sneijder was in great form and Robben was everywhere with his jinking runs and crosses. Robben also scored a fantastic opening goal as he received a pass from Sneijder, advanced to the corner of the box and powered in a beautiful, low left foot shot. The Dutch defence for the most part stood firm, ably assisted by defensive midfielders De Jong and van Bommel.

It was no way a vintage performance from the Dutch and they never appeared to hit top gear. There was always the impression that the Dutch still hadn't hit great form yet. But they were effective in their win. The second goal after a goalkeeping blooper sealed the victory but there was still time in the dying seconds for Stekelenburg to upend Jakubko, and Vittek to slot home the resulting penalty. It was a moment of poor judgement for the keeper who had earlier made two quality stops from Stoch and Vittek.

Round of 16. Match 4: Argentina 3-1 Mexico

For me, this match was spoiled by one key wrong decision. On 26 minutes Argentina took the lead through Tevez who was clearly in an offside position. It wasn't the most obvious decision for the assistant referee due to the speed with which it all happened, but it was definitely one he should have got right. Up until that point Mexico had looked the most threatening of the two sides: Salcido had attempted his luck with a very good powerful shot from distance which forced Romero into a save, Guardado fired just wide after good build up play from Dos Santos and Hernandez also spurned a decent opportunity. However from the first goal on Argentina always appeared on course to win.

The Mexicans complained bitterly to the referee about the goal, surrounding him as he talked to the assistant referee. The Argentinians also came in to have their say and it appeared the match was at boiling point. I later found out that what was at issue was the goal had been given but then the replay of the goal was shown on the big screen. The Mexicans obviously saw it and were up in arms. The ref and his officials would have seen it too but couldn't change the decision otherwise they would be in hot water with FIFA for making a decision based on a video replay. A video replay wasn't even supposed to have been played but there had somehow been an oversight.

Due to the whole incident Mexico lost the plot and six minutes later they went 2-0 behind. This was due to some dreadful defending from Osorio who dallied/took his eye off the ball which Higuain took off him with devastating consequences. I believe this was a hangover from the earlier decision. Mexico had started to look a distinctly average side compared with the one that had started so brightly. It was clearly due to the nature of the first goal that the wind had been taken out of their sails and they couldn't cope.

The third goal in the second half was even more of a killer blow than the second. At least this one was a moment of beauty. Tevez seemed to be in a fairly innocuous position 25 yards from goal, but he unleashed one of the goals of the tournament, powering it into the top corner. It was harsh on Mexico who no way deserved to be 3 goals down.

Mexico did manage a consolation as Hernandez worked his magic, scoring a delightful goal. But the goal was academic to the result, and Argentina marched on to a quarter-final with Germany.

Round of 16. Match 3: Germany 4-1 England

This was an eagerly anticipated clash between two bitter enemies, or should I say football rivals. It has been pointed out to me that the rivalry is one-sided and that Germany don't consider it much of a rivalry. Whilst the Netherlands are their biggest rivals the Germans do also have a thing for the English - you only have to see how often Franz Beckenbauer is making disparaging comments about the England team to see that. It is a rivalry that, like any good rivalry, has developed through big, dramatic, controversial games throughout history. Some would suggest it's a match-up designed for later in the tournament - but thanks to England failing to win their group it was to be a second round match in 2010.

England never really got going in the early stages of the match despite the fact they had the odd chance to open the scoring. Germany were causing a few more problems but they weren't at their vintage best either - Oezil had a good chance in the opening minutes that James did well to turn away. The opening goal came after about 20 minutes and it was a very poor one for England to concede. Goalkeeper Neuer punted the ball long down the field. Both Terry and Upson failed to deal with it and as it eluded them it fell nicely for Klose to slide the ball home.

Germany very nearly got a second goal straight after. Fantastic interplay in the middle of the field led to Klose being denied by James. But the second goal wasn't long in coming. Germany again tore England apart and Mueller fed Podolski on the left who finished from a narrow angle. The defence was again very poor (especially the marking) and James should arguably have done better from such a tight angle.

England, against the run of play, pulled a goal back - a cross from Gerrard was headed in by Upson. Neuer came out and flailed towards the ball but Upson scored with a simple header. Then moments before half-time England looked like they had equalised. The ball sat up nicely for Lampard just outside the box and he chipped the keeper with an exquisite shot. The ball hit the underside of the crossbar, hit the ground over the line, and bounced out. Lampard was celebrating, as was Capello, as indeed was I. Remarkably the goal wasn't given. Replays show conclusively that the ball was significantly over the line and it was unbelievable that the referee's assistant missed it.

It was a crucial decision, it was a blatantly wrong decision, and it will again ignite calls for technology in football. Personally I think it would be a good idea to microchip the ball. It's an area of the game that can be proved definitively and it is something that can be introduced without interrupting the flow of the game. It should definitely be looked into. Instead of England going into half-time level and with their tails up, they were behind.

Early in the second half Lampard was again unlucky as he hit the crossbar from a free-kick. England were awarded another free-kick in a similar position not long after but this time Lampard hit the wall. Lampard put his arms in the air to appeal for handball, Barry lost possession on the edge of the German box and Germany broke at pace. A sweeping move ended in Mueller smashing in a goal. Barry was partially at fault for giving away possession but England had barely any players back in defence. Too busy searching for an equaliser they had committed too many men forward. Terry was conspicuous by his absence and James could possibly have done better - the ball was hit very hard but it was in an area in which James could have been expected to do better.

Moments later Germany killed the game off with a sucker punch. Germany cleared their lines and Oezil and Barry chased after it on the German left wing. Barry was left for dead, Oezil dribbled into the England penalty area and set up Mueller in acres of space for a simple finish. Again there were very few defenders back for England, and those that were might as well not have been.

Fact 1) Germany were by far the better side and deserved to win. Fact 2) England played poorly, particularly their defence. Fact 3) Lampard's goal that wasn't changed the complexion of the game. I'm not arguing that had he scored England would have won but I am arguing that they would have had a lot better chance. An equaliser at that point would have changed the course of the game. England would not have needed to attack attack attack if they were back on level terms. And it was the attacking, and thus leaving themselves exposed at the back, that led to the concession of the third and fourth goals.

It must be said that a team should also be judged on how it reacts to adversity. Did England use the disallowed goal as extra motivation or did they lose the plot? It was the latter. With over half an hour to go they were stupid enough to throw too many players forward in search of the equaliser. They must surely have known how devastating Germany can be on the counter-attack but instead of employing tactics to reflect this they pushed forward like headless chickens. Was an extra couple of defenders in attack going to make the difference in scoring? Probably not. Were they likely to get punished on the break? Probably yes. So what the hell were the defence thinking? They should have stuck to their job, they should have tracked back better and they should in essence have got the fundamentals right. They still had time to get an equaliser - they just had to be smarter about trying to achieve it. But they weren't. When leaders were needed on the pitch to be intelligent in what they were trying to achieve they were found wanting.

Now I wish to make some minor criticisms of Capello. Let me make it clear that again this is not an excuse for the England players. Neither Capello or the goal that wasn't are excuses. England were dire. Only Lampard and Gerrard can come out with any credit from that game. No matter what other factors were at play there is no escaping that the English team were shocking.

The England team that was picked was 4-4-2. Why did Capello continue with this when it seemed obvious to most that 4-5-1 was in order. Against such a potent German attack packing the midfield with 5 players was a necessity. In this scenario Cole should have come in on the left wing with Defoe dropping to the bench. Upson was picked ahead of Carragher who was available again after suspension. There are questions to be asked if that was the right decision too. And when chasing the game is it not ridiculous that Heskey was brought on for Defoe? Heskey who is simply not a goalscorer. Peter Crouch anyone? Also Hart should have been starting in goal at the World Cup. I have been saying this for months.

A bad argument that I've heard as well is that Terry was apparently playing on the side of central defence he was not used to. I'm not sure how this would make him lose all the fundamentals of his game in an instant however.

The long and the short of is it that Germany marched on and that England had to catch an early flight home.

Round of 16. Match 2: Ghana 2-1 USA (a.e.t)

This match really got to life early on in the piece with Boateng scoring a goal on the five minute mark after powering forward and finishing with aplomb. Ghana then dominated proceedings with Ayew and Inkoom (playing his first game of the tournament) making inroads down the flanks. The USA did manage to have the best chances while they were looking for a way back into the game but Kingson was on song to save his team on numerous occasions. It was a quality performance from the Ghanaian goalkeeper.

Jonathan Mensah gave the USA a lifeline when he tripped Dempsey in the box and Donavon made no mistake from the spot. The complexion of the game thus changed with it becoming imperative for both teams to make the running. Both sides had chances - the USA again creating the better ones but Ghana looking more dangerous overall.

Extra-time started with a bang as Gyan put Ghana into the lead again, after only a couple of minutes, thrashing in a half-volley. Ghana hadn't scored from open play in the Group stage and hadn't scored more than one goal in a game for a long time...but in a game when it really mattered they had pulled out two goals of the highest quality. It was then a case of Ghana hanging on for the rest of the match - a task in which they succeeded.

Kingston, Boateng, Ayew and Gyan were the stand-outs for Ghana. Dempsey and Donavon were for the USA.

On a final note I just want to mention Altidore and how much I do not rate him. Every chance he has had at this World Cup I have expected him to miss - and he has. He is not a goalscorer, he can barely even score for Hull City. He also barges round the field like a right donkey...yes he is the Heskey of the USA, and I'm not sure why he is persisted with.

Round of 16. Match 1: Uruguay 2-1 South Korea

Two of the three goals in this game were a result of goalkeeping errors in my opinion. Uruguay opened the scoring on the eight minute mark when Forlan fired in a cross behind the static South Korean defence. Sung-Ryong Jung in goal moved out towards the ball but got nowhere near it leaving Suarez with an empty net to aim at (and from a tight angle he made it look easy). The second goalkeeping mistake came in the second half when Victorino partially cleared a free-kick, heading the ball high into the air, Muslera came out but was never going to get hold of the ball - instead presenting a routine header for Lee Chung-Yong to equalise.

There was nothing to be critical of with the winning goal however. Suarez created space for himself and sent in a stunning, curling shot that nestled in the top right hand corner. It was a goal worthy to win a World Cup knock-out match.

Another observation I would like to make is that when Uruguay were winning 1-0 they sat back on their lead and were content to defend it. In the first half South Korea did not create many opportunities but they came into it more in the second half. Uruguay looked comfortable but not particularly threatening. The equaliser was a statement to everybody as to why it is not the right strategy to sit back on your laurels when you have a one goal advantage. Ultimately it didn't harm Uruguay's progression but hopefully they have learnt their lesson on this one.

Suarez was the key man for the game and Uruguay were worthy winners. South Korea did however play some good stuff particularly in the second half - making. Park Chu-Young was South Korea's best player. That is no surprise as he has been their most impressive performer throughout the World Cup - only narrowly missing out on my "team of the group stages".

Preview of Round of 16. Match 8: Spain v Portugal

This is La Furia Roja versus Selecção das Quinas. It's the clash of the Iberian neighbours - one of the biggest rivalries in world football. This is two teams who can play sumptuous football, love to attack and have a number of household names in their teams.

The most recent chapter of their rivalry was Euro 2004 in which they were drawn together in the Group stage. Going into the final game against Portugal Spain were level with Greece on top of the group, on four points and needed just a draw against Portugal to progress. Instead they lost 1-0 and Portugal ultimately made the final.

Spain came into World Cup 2010 as favourites but are yet to really live up to their billing. They were stunned 1-0 by Switzerland in the opening group game in which despite looking good lacked the penetration to break them down. They have since bounced back from this to defeat Honduras 2-0 and Chile 2-1 to take top spot in Group H.

Portugal have also yet to really light up the tournament but they are a side who are very hard to break down. They are yet to concede a goal at World Cup 2010 having recorded two 0-0 draws with Ivory Coast and Brazil, either side of a 7-0 drubbing of North Korea. They have a very good recent defensive record but they rely too much on their midfield to score goals as they don't really have any notable strikers.

Neither side have players suspended and the only injury of note is that Alonso is struggling to be fit for Spain. If he doesn't make it then Martinez should start. Deco is back from injury for Portugal but with the form Tiago is in it will be surprising if he starts.

Key players

Spain

Villa has scored three of Spain's four goals thus far and is looking in the mood.

Iniesta is one of the best midfielders in the world.

Casillas is captain and one of the best goalkeepers around.

Portugal

Ronaldo has finally broken his international goalscoring duck of around 18 months. Perhaps this will be the impetus he needs to break the shackles. He always looks dangerous and is incredibly skilful. Maybe this is the day he lights up World Cup 2010

Tiago has been in fantastic form in midfield.

Coentrao is a brilliant left-back who performs at a consistently high level.

Expectations: This is a mouth-watering clash that people will hope lives up to expectations. Spain should have more of the possession and more of the early attacks on goal. Portugal will look to keep it tight and counter-attack with pace, poise and penetration. If there is an early goal this match could end up being a classic but the longer it stays 0-0 the more likely people are to be disappointed. Both sides will be hungry to reach the quarter-final - especially as they will both back themselves to beat Paraguay when they get there.

Preview of Round of 16. Match 7: Paraguay v Japan

This is La Albirroja versus the Blue Samarai. This is South America versus Asia's final representative, made all the more interesting by virtue of the fact that an Asian side has never beaten a South American side at a World Cup. These are two teams that have never got past the Round of 16. Paraguay have been in this position four times, Japan only once (and that in their own continent). But for one of them - this is about to change! I should also add that neither of them has even scored a goal in the second round!

Both come into the knock-out range with confidence. Paraguay believe this is their best ever team, they finished only one point behind Brazil in qualifying and they finished unbeated top of Group F. Japan's manager Takeshi Okada stated before the World Cup that they would make the semi-finals and they've certainly looked the best Asian team at the tournament. For both teams however it is hard to know whether they looked good because they really were that good or because their opposition didn't perform to potential at the tournament.

Paraguay looked very assured and skilful against Italy, completely dominated Slovakia and did enough against New Zealand to score the requisite point. Japan narrowly defeated Cameroon in a poor game, suffered a narrow loss against Netherlands before playing an excellent game against Denmark, defeating them 3-1.

Head-to-head: They have played each other on six occasions - Paraguay winning twice, Japan and there have been three draws. Paraguay's wins have been in the 2004 Olympic Games and the 1999 Copa America.

Suspensions: Caceres is unfortunately suspended for Paraguay. Vera and Santa Cruz (Paraguay) are one booking short of a suspension as are Abe, Endo, Nagatomo (Japan).

Key players

Paraguay: Alcarez has impressed in defence, Vera has been one of the most enterprising players in South Africa and scored a delightful goal against Slovakia. Santa Cruz will need to start showing why he is considered the star of the team.

Japan: Honda is their inspirational captain and in fine form. Endo is another one with a big talent. Often employed as a defensive midfielder he has a brilliant creative pass. Tulio is an imposing and effective 6 foot tall centre-back.

Expectations: Paraguay have a stellar defence who have conceded only once in South Africa and had the second best defensive record in South American qualifying. But it is also true to say that Japan are quite miserly having conceded twice in South Africa and with a good defensive record in qualifying. Perhaps then it will be a low scoring match? I certainly expect them to spend a while feeling each other out. Paraguay do love to attack but the likes of Santa Cruz, Barrios and Cardozo have not really demonstrated much of this in South Africa. Perhaps tonight is the night that they really let their South American flair go wild. Japan will be neat and quick in possession and potentially lethal from free-kicks. It should be a fascinating contest. Paraguay are favourites, and rightfully so, but this could easily go either way...

Preview of Round of 16. Match 6: Brazil v Chile

It's the Selecao versus la Roja. It's the 5 time world champion up against 3rd place finishers in 1962. It's a South American derby between two countries who were only separated by one point at the end of the qualifying campaign - during which Brazil only lost twice and conceded only 11 times in 18 games. Chile may have won one more game but this is a very impressive record for the Brazilians.

Brazil come into this game off the back of a group in which they showed good form but never really came alive. They defeated North Korea by a single goal - with the breakthrough taking a long time in coming. They eased to an impressive 3-1 victory over the Ivory Coast. And they did enough to manage a goal-less draw against Portugal. Manager Dunga has emphasised defence since he took over the managerial reigns in 2006 - hence the current Brazilian team have the potential to excite with the zest with which we associate Brazil, but this does not come to the fore as often as it might due to the sensible and pragmatic approach of Dunga.

Chile have brought much flair and excitement to the tournament - partly because of the attack minded tactics of their manager Bielsa. Some of their play has really lit up the tournament but they have struggled to reflect this in goals scored. In the group stage they beat both Honduras and Switzerland with convincing 1-0 wins before succumbing to spain 2-1. They will come into this game, no doubt playing 3-1-3-3 again, and will certainly be looking to attack.

Key players

Brazil

Robinho is the key to providing Brazil's attacking impetus. If and when Brazil score goals it would be a fair assumption to make that Robinho has had a big hand in it

Lucio is a central defender who will keep it tight at the back. Maicon will be dangerous with his marauding runs from right-back.

Fabiano is a clinical goalscorer so Brazil will be looking to him to finish the moves off with aplomb, the way they are accustomed to him doing

Chile

Sanchez is an exciting winger and a real creative outlet for the Chileans.

Vidal is a quality full-back and will look to attack when he has the opportunity

Suazo is still on the comeback trail from injury but he might just start today. He scored plenty of goals in qualifying and will look to add to his tally against Brazil

Suspensions will be very costly for Chile. Defence is their biggest weakness and they are to go in against Brazil with a couple of second stringers after Ponce and Medel picked up second bookings of the tournament against Spain. Thus Chile's task has just got harder. Estrada is also suspended but his absence will be less keenly felt as he only starts games on occasions. They will be pleased to welcome back key players Carmona and M Fernandez to the fold after they were suspended for the Spanish match.

Expectations: To begin with Chile will likely attack and Brazil will likely contain. There is a distinct possibility that Brazil will catch them on the counter-attack, and if Chile do fall behind it will be a massive mountain for them to climb to get back in the game. Chile will need to convert any chances they do get - instead of being wasteful as they have been shown to be in their earlier games.

South America versus South America is usually something special at the World Cup and Chile will be hoping not to suffer a repeat of their second round game against Brazil back in 1998 when they lost 4-1. Chile have only beaten Brazil seven times in their last 66 games and are very much second favourites coming into this one. But they have a very talented team and a never say die attitude. They can also be ill-disciplined, something else that may be their down fall.

This could be a very entertaining game.

Preview of Round of 16. Match 5: Netherlands v Slovakia

This is Oranje versus Repre. It's two different forms of history on the line. For the Dutch they have been in two consecutive finals in the 70's and a fourth place finish in 98 and are widely considered to have a rich football tradition that often highlights beautiful football over the art of winning. For Slovakia they are in their first world cup as an independent country so have already kicked off history by making the round of 16. They are descended from a great lineage however of Czechoslovakian football.

The Dutch have been in the round of 16 seven times and failed to progress on 3 of those occasions. They are very much the favourites in this match. Partly due to some of the irresistable players they have and partly because they cruised through the group stages at second gear but still won all three games. Slovakia were terrible against Paraguay and brilliant against Italy. It depends which one turns up as to how much of a chance they will have.

Key players

For the Dutch it's their exciting quartet of players who can win any game when they are on song: Arjen Robben, Robin van Persie, Wesley Sneijder and van der Waart. They also have good solid midfield players in Nigel de Jong and Giovanni Mark van Bommel. If anything their defence is the weakest area but looking at it man for man it is still pretty darn good.

For Slovakia it will be Robert Vittek that needs to be in the goals, Marek Hamsik will cause problems and Skrtel is a big bruising defender. The manager dropped two of their bigger names in Vladimir Weiss and Stanislav Sestak in their last game and it paid dividends - it's hard to know what he will do tonight. One things for sure they have some quality throughout their squad as they demonstrated against the defending champions.

Expectations: It's hard to predict. Logic would suggest Slovakia will sit back and look to counter-attack with the Dutch making the play, but it's really hard to know for sure. It will be a shock if the Netherlands lose but they've shown time and time again you can't write off a Dutch implosion. At least this time there doesn't seem to be fights within the squad. We shall see when the game kicks off at 2am NZ time!

Preview of Round of 16. Match 4: Argentina v Mexico

It's the Albiceleste versus El Tri. It's the two time World Cup winners Argentina versus the two time quarter-finalists Mexico. It's South America versus North/Central America. It's also a repeat of the Round of 16 match in 2006.

Yes in 2006 Argentina (after winning Group C ahead of the Netherlands) faced Mexico (who finished 2nd in Group D behind Portugal) and the score was 1-1 after 90 minutes. Argentina won by virtue of a spectacular Maxi Rodriguez goal in extra-time but it had been a tightly fought quality game.

They also lost the 1993 Copa America final to Argentina 2-1 and a 2007 Copa America semi-final 3-0.

Argentina will be hoping to successfully navigate the second round so that they can exact revenge on Germany in the quarter-finals. Germany of course eliminated Argentina on penalties at the quarter-final of the last World Cup. Mexico will be hoping to reach the quarter-finals for the first time since 1986.

Key players

Argentina

Messi: Messi is probably the best footballer in the world. He has perfect vision, innate football intelligence, super control, skill and awareness, creates opportunities for others and scores plenty of goals himself. He is a complete footballer and when on top of his game - nothing can stop him.

Mascherano: Mascherano is an important player because if there is one weakness in the Argentine team it is the defence. Not that the defence is bad but they do have the occasional blooper or nervy moment. Mascherano, as defensive midfielder, has the job of protecting the back four and does so admirably. He is also responsible for the link up play with the attacking midfielders at Argentina's disposal. He is very good at this also.

Tevez: A supremely talented striker, could Tevez be ready to fire?

Mexico

Marquez: Has the all important job of protecting the back four and in particular nullifying the threat of Messi. He thus has perhaps the most difficult job in world football. They are no strangers - they are team-mates and great friends for Barcelona. This friendship will of course be put on hold! Marquez is a highly experienced and quality player.

Dos Santos: Always threatening, Dos Santos creates opportunities for others and likes to have a shot himself.

Barrera: An under-rated midfielder Barrera has the potential to unlock defences.

Expectations: With both sides having the odd question mark over their defence this could be a very open game with plenty of goals. Argentina are far more clinical in attack. Mexico will create opportunities but they don't convert enough of them. This will have to change tonight. One hopes Hernandez might get a start this time but expect him instead off the bench. Maradona loves to play the fab four of Messi, Di Maria, Tevez and Higuain and expect this to continue. It's an irresistable combination and has worked for him so far.

Preview of Round of 16. Match 3: England v Germany

It's the big one! It's one time World Cup winner England versus three time champs Germany. It's one of world football's biggest rivalries and even though they are a very long time ago, for some people the rivalry takes on even bigger significance because of the world wars. This is reflected in the song that some people like to sing: "two world wars and one world cup".

England versus Germany is always one of the most anticipated clashes any time, let alone in the knock-out stage at a World Cup. They have a celebrated history of contests that stem in particular from the 1966 World Cup final.

Historic World Cup matches between the sides:

1966 World Cup final. England 4-2 Germany after extra-time. England were leading 2-1 and conceded an equaliser in the last minute of regulation time - Weber poked it over the line despite English protestations of a handball. In extra-time England scored one of the most controversial goals of all time and arguments rage to this day about it. Hurst hit the crossbar and the ball bounced down either onto or just over the goal-line. But the goal was given. Hurst went on to score another goal for England's fourth and his hat-trick and even that is contested. Fans had already started running onto the pitch so perhaps technically it should not have been given. England won their one and only world cup and this really kick-started a massive football rivalry.

1970 World Cup quarter-final. England were leading 2-0, then Germany pulled one back through Beckenbauer and manager Alf Ramsey did the unthinkable. He substituted the tiring Bobby Charlton and it was probably one of the worst decisions he ever made. England lost any potency going forward and Seeler equalised for the Germans. Gerd Muller scored the winner in extra-time (it was one of his 14 world cup finals goals for which he held the record until Ronaldo overtook him with 15 in 2006) to send the German fans into delirium. Many commentators think England would have won if their brilliant goalkeeper Gordon Banks hadn't been missing through illness.

1990 World Cup semi-final. This is one of my worst memories as an England fan. Lineker equalised in the 80th minute to make the match 1-1 and send it to extra-time. No-one broke through in extra-time and England had their first taste of spot-kick misery. Something they would experience a lot more of through the years. Pearce and Waddle missed their penalties. The game was also iconic for Gazza's tears - he had received a yellow card which would cause him to be suspended for the final should England make it through.

A couple more iconic matches (non World Cup) have also been the 1996 European Championships semi-final which England also lost on penalties - Southgate the villain this time - and a World Cup qualifying match in 2001 when England famously won a surprising 5-1!

Both teams are coming into this match off a mixed bag in the group stage. England were average against the USA, abysmal against Algeria, and finally got themselves together against Slovenia. Germany were mesmerising against Australia before succumbing to Serbia and then beating Ghana.

Key players

England

Rooney - yet to set the World Cup alight he is considered part of the trio of world's best footballers: Messi, Ronaldo and Rooney. When he fires he is almost unstoppable.

Gerrard and Lampard (and particularly Gerrard) - two supremely talented players who step up for their clubs when it matter but don't do it often enough for England.

John Terry - Prone to the odd mistake Terry will have to put a few things behind him, (affair, captaincy stripping, harsh words on Capello) stay focused and be a true leader on the pitch.

Germany

Oezil and Mueller - Two young players that can wrip apart any defence when they are at the top of their game. Oezil is coming off a game in which he scored an absolute belter and Mueller has the potential to become the best player in the world, and is not far behind right now. Both could create a lot of opportunities for the devastating front men Podolski and Klose.

Lahm - Captain and a fantastic full-back he must be alert to the dangers coming from England's midfield and attack.

Schweinsteiger - A key man in central midfield, Schweinsteiger is battling an injury and hoping to be fit.

Expectations - could be a cagey tight affair with neither side wanting to give an inch. But it will have the potential to explode at any time with the attacking talent on show tonight. Both sides have shown the odd weakness in defence so there could be some goals in the game. Germany have more talent throughout their squad and they are younger which could make them more exciting and play with less fear. Although it could also lead to more mistakes or naive play without all the wise old heads around.

And if it comes to penalties, you have to back the Germans.
An absolute classic encounter is in the offing, and it's a shame one of these teams won't be strutting their stuff in the quarter-finals.

Preview of Round of 16. Match 2: USA v Ghana

This is American World Power versus the Hope of Africa. The Stars and Stripes against the Black Stars.

The USA, apart from a 3rd place finish in the first World Cup in 1930, reached their pinnacle of World Cup achievement in 2002 when they lost to Germany in the quarter-finals. And they were unlucky as well - Frings arguably handled in the penalty area preventing a goal but no penalty was awarded and the USA ultimately lost 1-0. They will be hoping to defeat Ghana to emulate the Class of 2002 and an opportunity to surpass them against Uruguay in the quarter-final. Ghana have only recently joined the ranks of the African countries to have appeared at a World Cup. First appearance was in 2006 when they made the second round only to lose 3-0 to Brazil. They will be hoping to achieve their best ever success and to emulate their African counterparts: Cameroon of 1990 and Senegal in 2002. And then to go one better against Uruguay in the quarter-finals.

The USA and Ghana have faced each other once at World Cup level. In 2002 they were drawn in the same group. Ghana beat the USA 2-1 in their final games of the group which enabled Ghana to progress to the second round and sent the USA packing.

Some key statistics: Ghana are the only team at World Cup 2010 to make the second round without scoring a goal from open play. Both goals came courtesy of Gyan penalty kicks. The USA have demonstrated fantastic battling qualities having come back from behind to draw in two games. After conceding early against England they equalised five minutes before half-time, albeit thanks to assistance from a Robert Green shocker. Against Slovenia they conceded two goals in the first half only to come back with two goals of their own in the second. Against Algeria they didn't need to fight back from being behind, but with the scores 0-0 in injury time at the end of the game they fashioned a winner. Clearly the USA have a lot of heart and clearly it is time for Ghana to score a goal from open play!

Key players: For Ghana Gyan is the likeliest goal scorer and Ayew should cause problems down the left flank. First choice centre-back Vorsah may not recover from injury in time. For USA Donovan and Dempsey are the keys with both players having the quality to create goals and a lot of heart to boot.

This should be a very physical match. Ghana have some very physically strong players and the USA won't back down. The USA are marginal favourites, particularly if they score first. It will be a fascinating contest.

Preview of Round of 16. Match 1: Uruguay v South Korea

This is South America v Asia. This is 1930 and 1950 World Cup winners against 2002 Semi-finalist. This is 2.5 million people v 52 million. La Celeste v Taeguk Warriors.

Uruguay and South Korea have only ever played each other once at a World Cup. This was at the group stage in 1990. Uruguay won 1-0 in the last minute and qualified for the round of 16, South Korea went home without registering a point. They have played each other five times in total - Uruguay have won 4 times and they have drawn once. South Korea have never beaten a South American side at a World Cup.

Uruguay will be desperate to make their first quarter-finals since 1970 and are in the knock-out stages for the first time since 1990. South Korea will want to write a new chapter in their history having only been past the group stage once before (2002). Both will be buoyed, knowing that should they win, their quarter-final clash will be against USA or Ghana, neither one of the so-called bigger nations.

Form Guide over their last 5 games: Uruguay are unbeaten with 4 wins and a draw. South Korea have recorded a win, a draw and three losses. At this World Cup Uruguay are yet to concede a goal, scoring 4 times. South Korea have scored 5 and conceded 6.

Who is the favourite? Uruguay probably go in as favourites but this is finals football: form can go right out of the window. Forlan and Park Ji-Sung could be the keys to victories for their respective sides.

Who will reign supreme? It will be an interesting clash of styles, and naturally I'm really looking forward to the game.